Centrally located in Downtown Toronto, Ontario, Roy Thomson Hall is a venue that hosts music concerts and other events. Built in 1982, this concert hall serves as the permanent home of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. You can easily get to this modern entertainment hub by taking the TTC subway or streetcars. Click to book your Toronto tours.
Background and History
Roy Thomson Hall on King St West in Toronto
Opened in the 1890's, Massey Hall was one of Toronto's premier concerts venues for decades. In the late 1970's, the city's leaders and prominent figures called for the opening of a new concert hall in the heart of the Downtown District. Construction for the hall began in 1980 thanks to municipal and private funding, including donations from local entrepreneur Roy Thomson. Working with the Mather and Haldenby firm, Arthur Erickson was the chief architect for the new facility.
The Toronto Symphony Orchestra had the honor of making the first performance at the concert hall in the fall of 1982. Since then, this acclaimed organization has been officially based at the venue. In 2002, the facility was renovated at a total cost of more than 20 million dollars. Significant acoustic enhancements were to the spacious interior, which was originally designed for music concerts. Since this major renovation, the hall has been a prime venue for diverse performances that go beyond classical music.
Hall Seating
Roy Thomson Hall is home to the Toronto Symphony OrchestraRoy Thomson Hall has three different levels with more than 2,600 total seats. Designated as the first level, the Main Hall has 913 seats that overlook the stage from slight elevations. Known as the second level, the Mezzanine section has 789 seats, including 147 choir lofts. Up to 928 spectators can enjoy concerts from the Balcony Level. Every section at the hall has multiple wheelchair-accessible seats that offer prime views of the orchestra stage as well.
Events and Shows
The Toronto Symphony Orchestra dominates the calendar at Roy Thomson Hall. Throughout the year, you can enjoy the organization's performances of classical symphonies. For example, the Mozart Experience celebrates one of Europe's greatest composers. TCHAIKOVSKY’S THE NUTCRACKER & MORE runs for several weeks during the holiday season. Solo musicians, bands, comedians and public speakers also entertain the audience at this state-of-the-art facility.
Guests also have wonderful opportunities to enjoy free concerts featuring the hall's historic Gabriel Kney organ pipe. Local youth and adult choirs usually participate in the free seasonal performances. For example, the Toronto Mass Choir performs the Glory of Gospel, which combines traditional Jazz with American Blues and Caribbean Reggae. Click to book your Toronto tours.
Visiting Roy Thomson Hall
Roy Thomson Hall stands as a prominent landmark in the vibrant Toronto's Entertainment District. This world-class venue dominates the scene at the David Pecaut Square, which is situated at the corner of King Street and Simcoe Street.
Located only two blocks away from the hall, the St. Andrew Station accommodates passengers riding the Yonge-University Line of the Toronto Transit Commission Subway. Additionally, the 304 and 504 lines of the TTC Streetcar system stop just steps away from the entertainment venue. These routes make multiple stops along the busy King Street, which runs in east-west directions through the Downtown District.
Drivers can park their vehicles in an underground parking garage that has just less than 400 spaces. The parking facility is accessible from Wellington Street, which runs just past the building's southern flank. This secure and illuminated parking facility doesn't accept reservations, and guests will be charged hourly or daily rates. The parking rates for the surface lot and underground lot are usually identical during events.
By: Denise Marie
Published On: 2018-11-07
Updated On: 2019-10-23 Note: This information can change without notice. Confirm all details directly with the company in question.Book Toronto Tours
60 Simcoe Street
